Whether you're an aspiring artists or a budding environmentalist, there are tons of cool ways to explore your interests while also giving back.

With second semester here before you know it, it may be time to think about how you're going to meet your school's community service requirement. Of course, the credit isn't the only thing to consider. Volunteering gives back and can be an opportunity to explore your own interests and skills. (And, yes, community service is a standout achievement to add to your college application.)

So, where to start? Your school may have a list of suggested opportunities that count towards your credit, or you can try out a site like Volunteer Match that lets you search by location and type. But here's a big FYI: There are lots of volunteer activities you may not have even thought of before! To get you do-good inspired, we've come up with some suggestions based on your passion of choice.

You're a future veterinarian, environmentalist, or Discovery Channel host:
Lend a hand at an animal shelter (aw, puppies!), Audubon Society chapter (put a bird on it!), or non-profit wildlife organization (exotic animals, if you're lucky!). Your local parks department is also a great place to learn about preservation and botany, plus lead nature-oriented camp programs for kids. Bonus points if you work for a Leslie Knope-type in the process.

You're a budding fashion designer, stylist, or retail mogul:
Fun fact: You can totally volunteer your time at a non-profit-run thrift store. The non-profit part is important, so make sure it qualifies beforehand; one of our favorites here in New York is Housing Works. Once you've proven yourself by manning the cash register and organizing backroom inventory, move on up to merchandising the floors and styling the windows. But word to the wise: Shopping vintage goods once your shift ends (obviously) won't count toward your hours.

You're training to be the next Alex Morgan, Gabby Douglas, or Williams sister:
Sign yourself up to coach a team, referee games, or serve as a counselor for a sports-related program at a community recreation center or YMCA. You can also look for opportunities to make your favorite sport more inclusive. The American Youth Soccer Organization has a program that rallies volunteers to assist players with disabilities. Another option, this one for the running-inclined, is Achilles International which helps train disabled runners and triathletes. And if your town doesn't already offer such programs? Start one on your own!

You have the travel bug and/or can't wait to show off your language skills:
Yes, you canvolunteer abroad and engage in some really amazing experiences, from building playgrounds for underprivileged kids in South Africa to developing rural eco-tourism practices in Thailand. ISV and Global Leadership Adventures are just two programs with these sorts of offerings. Not only would you be giving back on a global scale, you'd also have the unmatched opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture. Don't feel like getting that passport stamp just yet, but want some real-life exposure to a language you're studying? You can stay at home but do just as much good by volunteering at non-profit cultural organizations in your town. You can tutor new immigrants in English or citizenship classes, help out with an ESL childcare program, or even work on interview skills with job seekers.

You're already studying for your MCATs even though you haven't taken your SATs yet:
You probably already know about the myriad opportunities to lend a hand at hospitals, health centers, and blood drives. These are all great options, but if you want to be more specialized, seek out specific opportunities at rehab clinics, nursing homes, or pediatric care facilities. If want to do double duty and there's a cause you really believe in, support war veterans at a VA hospital in your city or work with disabled children at a local clinic.

You're this generation's Lady Gaga or Lena Dunham:
In other words, you're a creative! If music is your jam, try teaching music lessons to kids at a community center or take the stage and spread some cheer by performing for residents at a senior center or hospice facility. Certain medical facilities also have music therapy programs for patients, so check 'em out to see how you can contribute your talents there. If writing is your thing, look into reading programs for children or opportunities at the neighborhood library. Area museums and art centers also offer loads of volunteer options to help out in the back office, serve as summer camp counselors, and teach classes.

You have a cause, and you're going to fight for it now:
Do a search for local chapters of organizations that support your mission. Maybe your cause is reproductive rights? Planned Parenthood is always looking for volunteers to help in its centers and also do office work to keep the cause going. Domestic violence? Seek out shelters and organizations that cater to abused women. The environment? Greenpeace has student programs! No matter what your passion, we can pretty much guarantee there's a way for you to help out and earn some credit.